Caleb Kerney
The winds of change are blowing with the Edmonton Oilers. One of those changes may involve Craig Berube.
Recently, the Oilers relieved Mark Stuart and Kris Knoblauch of their coaching duties. Now, they must act swiftly and precisely to add a new head coach who can help them cross the finish line. Bruce Cassidy was previously linked to the franchise, but now a new name has emerged.
Bookmark the Edmonton Oilers at Sportsnaut so you never miss the latest news, rumors, opinions, and more.
According to multiple sources, the Oilers have received permission to speak to former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Berube.
“Not reported in it (latest podcast), but heard this morning: Oilers have permission to talk to Craig Berube,” Elliotte Friedman wrote on social media on May 18th, 2026.
Additionally, Ryan Rishaug adds to the report.
“Hearing a formal interview with Berube is expected,” Rishaug wrote on X. “After some intial conversation between he and (Stan) Bowman. Permission to speak with Bruce Cassidy had still not been granted.”
More Changes Coming To the Oilers
In addition to Friedman and Rishaug, David Pagnotta also confirmed the Oilers’ interest.
“With all eyes on Bruce Cassidy, sources tell me the Oilers are going to interview former Leafs coach Craig Berube,” Pagnotta reports. “There is chatter of some movement within the hockey ops department in Edmonton, as some individuals may be elevated up the ranks.”
The second part of this statement is also intriguing. Pagnotta suggests that some individuals will be promoted or moved around.
Given how the last season ended for the Oilers, having a new voice for the players will be a welcome change. However, they cannot make a change just for the sake of change. Whoever they hire to replace Knoblauch needs to be a better coach than Knoblauch, which will be no easy task.
One way or another, this summer is poised to be an interesting one with the Oilers.
